Razorlight
Olympus Sleeping

THE REVIEW

It took ten years, but Johnny Borrell finally decided to revive the Razorlight brand and follow up on the much-criticized third album "Slipway Fires."

For this new "Olympus Sleeping," the bombastic turn of the last album has been almost entirely ignored (despite the pre-release statements of the eccentric frontman), just as there are very few traces of the more authorial imprint of the second (beautiful) self-titled album. It is, in fact, an album that aligns more with the fresh and direct guitar-driven indie rock of the much-acclaimed debut by the British band, clearly updated to a songwriting maturity that has led Borrell to write differently than he did fourteen years ago.

Despite this, it should be noted that the frontman has maintained an enviable freshness in his way of composing. Assisted by the new Martin Chambers, drummer of the Pretenders, and David Ellis, Borrell puts together a short and concise record, where the tracks immediately strike and the setlist allows very few moments of calm ("Midsummer Girl," the Pete Doherty-esque "Iceman," "No Answers").

For the rest, it is perhaps a somewhat anachronistic indie rock album, but at times irresistible. After all, when Borrell's pen is inspired, only gems come out, as in the case of the devastating "Got To Let The Good Times Back Into Your Life," an absolutely irresistible indie anthem, or "Sorry?," which could have been included in the unforgettable debut "Up All Night." "Carry Yourself" is a potential hit, perfect as a single.

At times, unfortunately, the band indulges too much in an overly evident citationism, as in the case of "Brighton Pier," yet another reinterpretation of "Walking On Sunshine"; balanced by a stunning "Good Night" with its minute and a half of furious and pounding punk and a "City Of Women" that closes the album with a great melody, one of the best ever created by the good Johnny.

A good return for Razorlight, who are trying to reposition themselves in a music scene very different from ten years ago. We will see how and if they succeed, in the meantime, this "Olympus Sleeping" ultimately proves to be a good calling card.

Best track: Good Night